OWENSBORO, Ky. (10/11/13) – After seeing a commercial about a nonprofit organization seeking donations of hair that can be used in hairpieces for children in need who are suffering what the agency’s website refers to as “long term medical hair loss from any diagnosis,” a local seven-year-old knew right away she wanted to contribute to the cause.

Kiersten Taylor, the daughter of Sam and Leigha Taylor, told her parents she wanted to cut her hair so it could be donated, and their first step was to determine the requirements and get the help of a stylist. There are several requirements for the hair to be accepted, including the need for it to be at least 10 inches in length from tip to tip. With a stylist’s help, Kiersten and her mother determined the strands of hair just barely met the requirement, so they agreed to grow it out several more inches before cutting it.

Kiersten said she was inspired by the opportunity to help other children.

“So they can feel God’s love,” she said when asked why she decided to donate her hair. “I don’t want them (other children) to be embarrassed and made fun of.”

Of course, hair loss among children is most commonly the result of a form of cancer, but can occur through other means according to Locks of Love. Eighty percent of donations come from children, the agency also reported on its website.